U.S.A. –-(AmmoLand.com)- Vortex Optics has dominated the “budget riflescope” market for years with their entry-level optic, the Strike Eagle. From the first release of the Strike Eagle, which I purchased to get into 3 gun, the scope boasted decent glass, an effective reticle, and a fantastic price point. It was a great optic to get you started in competition or if you were just looking to push the limits of your rifle at the range. The new Strike Eagle 1-8×24 First Focal Plane (FFP) riflescope continues on that ethos of an affordable but highly effective low variable power optic.
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 FFP Rifle Scope
With an MSRP of $799.99 (and a street price that is much lower), the new Strike Eagle comes with plenty of features and some big upgrades, but is it worth it compared to an older second focal plane model? How about compared to the Razer 1 to 10 which MSRPs for $3500? Let’s take a closer look.
First Focal Plane, Worth It
For the first time, the Strike Eagle is offered in first focal plane. First focal plane optics allow the reticle to change size with magnification, meaning at its lowest magnification the reticle on the Strike Eagle appears as a red dot. As you increase magnification, the reticle will grow larger allowing you to utilize the BDC hashmarks on the reticle to accurately make long-distance shots. Holdovers will remain accurate to the BDC regardless of the magnification setting you are on because it is a FFP.
The Strike Eagle’s EBR-8 reticle is glass-etched, clutter-free, and easy to use. At the center of the reticle is a floating dot that is surrounded by a 12 moa
